Senior Research Associate for Sustainable Buildings and Habitat Programme

Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) is looking for a Senior Research Associate to work towards mainstreaming sustainability in the built environment. Focus will be at mass housing, calling for cross-cutting research to improve inclusivity, liveability and sustainability in the housing schemes promoted by the government of India as well as states. This will be followed by requisite advocacy, outreach and capacity building of the relevant public institutions as well as the built environment community. Candidates with a clear and comprehensive understanding of the housing and construction sector; people-centric and climate-responsive spatial planning, national initiatives for sustainable development, and liveability standards will be preferred.

Selected candidate will be a part of Sustainable Buildings and Habitat Programme. The programme aims at reducing the resource footprint of the new development to meet the broader programme objectives of reducing overall emissions from the built environment sector and improving the quality of our habitat.This includes ensuring the new construction is climate appropriate, inclusive,accessible, self-sufficient and operationally efficient.

He/she will conduct high quality research and dissemination via writing, presenting, networking along with policy advocacy and outreach under the programme objectives. This will also include capacity building of regulators and built environment professionals.

Work Profile

Data collection and interpretation from accredited organizations.
Evaluatingdata and synthesizing analysis in ongoing reports to prepare advocacy agenda.
Designing and producing specific training modules, field exercises, etc.
Contributing to team’s formal written papers and reports.
Capacity building ofpublic institutions and varied professional groups.
Handholding and liaising with individuals and organizations respecting the expectations and best practices related to the sustainability practices.
Promote and maintain a high level of ethical professional conduct in all work related situations.

Competencies

Essential

Sound understanding of the housing and construction sector including Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and linked state housing schemes.
Conducting socio-spatial and environmental analyses and proficiency with spatial mapping tools such as GIS.
Well versed withthe process of city master planning, building byelaws and the national policy landscape for sustainable development.

Desirable

Familiarity with the principles of sustainable mobility and low-carbon development.
Versed with the economics of housing sector including fiscal strategies and support extended by the government.
Familiarity with concepts of passive architecture and sustainable building materials.
Familiarity with codes related to energy conservation and simulation and modelling software.

Qualification and Experience

A Master’s degree in Urban Planning/Environment/ Planning/ Architecture/ Engineering.
One to three years of experience in non-profit/academia/consultingsector in the field of housing, urban planning, environmental sustainability and/or energy efficiency.

Given details above are flexible if the candidate is able to demonstrate a deep interest and capability in working on the issues of sustainability in buildings and habitat.

Essential Soft Skills